The Authentic William James

Dust jacket illustration by Gail Cross.

Sebastian Becker’s position as Special Investigator for the British Crown requires a subtle touch: gathering evidence that determines whether or not someone is a Chancery Lunatic — afflicted with madness making them unfit to manage their fortunes — without tipping the hand of those whose resources often make them above the law.

In the aftermath of a fiery tragedy that leaves dozens dead and England’s leaders maneuvering for an answer to stave off political ramifications, former police detective Becker is called upon to utilize his intimacy with the insane, and familiarity with working in the shadows. 

Tasked with evaluating the sanity of the confessed arsonist — Wild West Showman ‘The Authentic William James’—leads Becker from the shores of Sussex to the film studios of Hollywood. Delving into the circus world to unravel the mystery of a man who admits guilt and flees will pit Becker’s appointed role to do his country’s bidding against his compassion to do what is right for a family.

Stephen Gallagher is the author of Out of His Mind, the winner of the British Fantasy award. His work has been adapted to many on-screen treatments, and he has written for Doctor Who and Crusoe. In his third Sebastian Becker novel, Gallagher once again shows his ability to create a suspenseful thriller through the wry voice of his protagonist.